MD SB597

Establishes the Maryland Artificial Intelligence Partnership within the University System of Maryland to coordinate AI initiatives statewide, with a strategic plan due by December 1, 2026 and annual progress reports thereafter

Creates the Artificial Intelligence Incubation Lab in the University System of Maryland to help state agencies discover, develop, and prototype AI solutions in coordination with the Department of Information Technology

Requires establishment of three Maryland Technology Extension Hubs by December 15, 2026 to connect small businesses with AI resources and provide free AI skills training, including credit-bearing credentials

Expands the Cyber Warrior Diversity Program at six institutions (including Morgan State, Bowie State, and UMBC) to include artificial intelligence training alongside cybersecurity and computer networking

Renames the Cybersecurity Public Service Scholarship Program to the Emerging Technology Public Service Scholarship Program and extends eligibility to students pursuing AI-related degrees, with recipients required to work in AI or cybersecurity for state/local government